Hamster Care at Advanced Animal Care ER

Compassionate and Expert Care for Your Hamster

At Advanced Animal Care ER, we understand that hamsters are small, curious, and energetic animals that require specialized care to live long, healthy lives. Whether you’re a first-time hamster owner or an experienced enthusiast, our team is here to provide the best care for your hamster. From routine wellness exams to emergency treatments, we ensure your hamster receives the love and attention they deserve.

What to Expect During Your Hamster's Visit:

When you bring your hamster to Advanced Animal Care ER, you can expect caring, professional attention from our veterinary team. Here’s what to expect during an initial visit:

  • Comprehensive Physical Exam: Our veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination to check your hamster’s overall health, including their teeth, nails, coat, and body condition.

  • Behavior and Diet Review: We’ll discuss your hamster’s diet, habitat, and any behavioral changes. Proper nutrition and a comfortable environment are key to their health.

  • Diagnostic Testing: If needed, we may recommend diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, fecal exams, or x-rays to diagnose any underlying health conditions.

  • Personalized Care Plan: Based on the exam and diagnostic results, we will create a personalized care plan for your hamster, which may include adjustments to their diet, habitat, or treatment for any health conditions.

Common Hamster Health Concerns We Treat:

Hamsters are generally healthy pets but can be prone to specific health problems. Some of the most common issues we treat include:

  • Wet Tail: A common, life-threatening condition that causes diarrhea, lethargy, and dehydration.

  • Overgrown Teeth: Hamsters’ teeth grow constantly, and improper diet or lack of proper chew toys can lead to overgrowth.

  • Heart Disease: Like many small animals, hamsters can suffer from heart conditions that lead to lethargy and difficulty breathing.

  • Parasites and Skin Infections: Hamsters can develop skin issues or be affected by parasites like mites.

  • Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Hamsters are susceptible to UTIs that cause pain and discomfort when urinating.

  • Cancer and Tumors: Hamsters can develop tumors or cancer as they age.

Prompt care and early detection are key to treating and preventing these conditions.

Hamster Care FAQs:

Are hamsters mammals? Are hamsters rodents?
Yes, hamsters are mammals and are classified as rodents. They belong to the Cricetidae family, which includes various species of hamsters and other rodents.

What is the difference between hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs?

  • Hamsters: Generally solitary animals, known for their small size and nocturnal activity.

  • Gerbils: Typically social animals that require companionship and enjoy burrowing.

  • Guinea Pigs: Larger, more social animals that live in groups and require more space than hamsters.

Is a hamster a type of rat?
No, hamsters are not rats. While both are rodents, hamsters belong to a different family (Cricetidae) than rats, which are part of the Muridae family.

What are the best hamsters for beginners or first-time hamster owners?
The Syrian hamster is the best choice for first-time hamster owners. They are generally friendly, easy to handle, and available in a variety of colors and sizes. Dwarf hamsters are also a good option but can be more active and harder to handle.

Are dwarf hamsters friendly?
Yes, dwarf hamsters can be friendly, but they tend to be more energetic and less social than Syrian hamsters. They can be tamer if handled regularly from a young age.

What are the types or breeds of hamsters, and what is the best hamster for kids?

  • Syrian Hamsters: The largest and most common pet hamster, great for beginners and kids.

  • Dwarf Hamsters: Smaller, faster, and more energetic. Examples include Roborovski and Campbell’s dwarf hamsters.

  • Chinese Hamsters: Slightly larger than dwarf hamsters, known for being more solitary.

The Syrian hamster is generally considered the best hamster for kids due to its calm nature and larger size.

How big do hamsters get?
Syrian hamsters can grow up to 6-7 inches in length, while dwarf hamsters typically stay around 2-4 inches.

What do I need to know about having a pet hamster?
Hamsters are low-maintenance pets but still require proper care, including a spacious cage, a balanced diet, regular cleaning, and enrichment activities to keep them happy. They are also nocturnal, so they may be most active at night.

Are hamsters good pets? What are the pros and cons?
Pros:

  • Low-maintenance

  • Small, space-friendly

  • Fun to watch and interact with

  • Generally friendly with proper handling

Cons:

  • Short lifespan (2-3 years)

  • Nocturnal, may be less active during the day

  • Can be prone to health issues like wet tail and overgrown teeth

What do hamsters need?
Hamsters need:

  • A spacious cage (at least 450 square inches for a Syrian hamster)

  • Bedding (avoid cedar or pine, as they can be harmful)

  • Toys and tunnels for exercise and mental stimulation

  • A wheel for running

  • Fresh water and a balanced diet

Why do hamsters run on wheels, and what is the best hamster wheel?
Hamsters run on wheels to burn off energy and stay active. The best hamster wheel should be solid, not mesh, to prevent injury, and should be the appropriate size for your hamster (at least 8 inches in diameter for Syrian hamsters).

What is the best hamster cage or habitat?
The best habitat for a hamster includes:

  • A large cage (preferably a bin cage, habitrail, or a wire cage with a solid floor)

  • Bedding for burrowing

  • Tunnels or hideaways for security

  • A wheel for exercise and other interactive toys

Are hamster exercise balls safe?
Exercise balls can be safe when used properly, but it’s important to supervise your hamster. They should not be left in the ball for too long, and the ball should be the correct size.

How many hides or hideouts do I need for my hamster?
At least one hideout is necessary, but you can add more if you wish. Hamsters are burrowers and appreciate places where they can retreat and feel secure.

Are hamsters smart? Can I teach them tricks?
Yes, hamsters are smart and can be trained to respond to certain cues. They can learn tricks like running through tunnels, jumping over obstacles, or even using a litter box.

Do hamsters like to be held, and how do I hold a hamster?
Hamsters can be held but should be treated gently. Use one hand to scoop the hamster up from below and place them in your hand. If your hamster shakes when held, it may be stressed or fearful. Give them time to adjust and don’t force the interaction.

Do hamsters bite? How do I get my hamster to stop biting?
Hamsters may bite if they feel threatened or are not used to handling. To prevent biting:

  • Handle your hamster gently and regularly.

  • Let them sniff your hand before picking them up.

  • Avoid sudden movements.

If bitten, clean the wound and monitor for signs of infection. If the bite is deep or doesn’t heal, seek medical attention.

What is in a hamster’s diet?
Hamsters need:

  • Fresh hay (timothy hay)

  • Pellets designed for hamsters

  • Fresh vegetables (like carrots, spinach, and cucumber)

  • Occasional fruit (in moderation)

What is the best hamster food?
The best hamster food is high-quality hamster pellets. These provide the proper balance of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. You can also offer fresh veggies and small amounts of fruit as treats.

Do hamsters hibernate? How long does a hamster hibernate?
Hamsters do not truly hibernate, but they may enter a state of torpor (a deep sleep) if they are exposed to cold temperatures. This state can last for several days and is usually triggered by environmental factors.

How long do hamsters live?
Hamsters typically live around 2-3 years.

Do hamsters get cold? Do hamsters like the dark?
Yes, hamsters can get cold if they are exposed to low temperatures. They prefer a warm, dark environment, and they are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk.

Can hamsters see in the dark?
Hamsters have excellent night vision and can navigate in low-light conditions, which is why they are active during the night.

Do hamsters smell?
Hamsters do not have a strong odor, but their cage can develop a smell if not cleaned regularly. Make sure to clean bedding, food dishes, and water bottles to maintain a fresh environment.

Do hamsters need baths?
Hamsters generally do not need baths. They groom themselves and keep clean. Bathing them can cause stress and remove their natural oils, leading to dry skin.

Do hamsters shed? Are hamsters hypoallergenic?
Yes, hamsters do shed, though not as frequently as other pets. They are not considered hypoallergenic, and their dander may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Do hamsters need a friend? Do hamsters get lonely? Are hamsters solitary or social?
Most hamsters, especially Syrian hamsters, are solitary animals and should be kept alone. Dwarf hamsters, however, can live together, but they need to be introduced at a young age.

How do I bond with my hamster?
To bond with your hamster, offer gentle handling, and let them come to you. Provide treats and spend time with them outside their cage to help build trust.

Are hamsters color blind?
Yes, hamsters are color blind. They see the world in shades of blue and green, but they rely more on smell and touch than sight.

Do cats eat hamsters?
Yes, cats are natural predators, and they may attack hamsters if given the opportunity. Always supervise your hamster if they are out of their cage and keep them away from cats.

How many days can hamsters go without food and water?
Hamsters can survive 2-3 days without food and water, but it's crucial to ensure they always have access to fresh supplies.

How long are hamsters pregnant, and how many babies does a hamster have?
Hamsters are pregnant for around 16-18 days, and a typical litter size is 6-8 babies, though it can range from 1 to 12.

Do hamsters carry diseases? Do hamsters have rabies? Are there any hamster diseases that can be passed on to humans?
Hamsters can carry diseases like salmonella, and while rabies is very rare in hamsters, they can still transmit diseases to humans. Always wash your hands after handling them.

Do I need to vaccinate my hamster?
No, hamsters do not require vaccinations, but they do need to be checked regularly for health issues.

Can hamster urine make you sick?
Yes, hamster urine can carry bacteria like salmonella, which can cause illness in humans. Always clean cages regularly and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

Does my hamster need to be on flea and ear mite prevention, and how do you treat those things?
Hamsters are generally not prone to fleas, but they can get ear mites or other parasites. Your veterinarian can recommend treatments like topical medications or ear mite treatments.

How soon should I bring my pet to see a veterinarian if they've stopped eating or drinking or have other sudden behavior changes?
If your hamster stops eating or drinking or shows signs of illness, bring them to the vet immediately, ideally within 24-48 hours.

How to Schedule an Appointment:

To schedule an appointment for your hamster, call Advanced Animal Care Emergency at 859-625-5678. Our team is here to provide the best care for your hamster companion.